What Are the Rules of Sumo Wrestling?By Coder| August 31, 2023 Wrestling Sumo wrestling is a fascinating and ancient sport that originated in Japan. It is not only a physical competition but also deeply rooted in Japanese culture and tradition. If you’ve ever wondered about the rules of sumo wrestling, this article will provide you with a comprehensive guide. The Objective In sumo wrestling, the objective is simple yet challenging: force your opponent out of the ring or make any part of their body other than the soles of their feet touch the ground. Matches are conducted on a circular ring called a dohyo, which is made of clay and covered in sand to provide traction. Basic Rules Sumo matches consist of several rituals and rules that both wrestlers must follow. Here are some essential rules: Tachi-ai: The match begins when both wrestlers crouch down at the starting lines on opposite sides of the dohyo. They must wait for the gyoji (referee) to signal with their fan before initiating contact. Forbidden Techniques: Certain moves are strictly prohibited in sumo wrestling, such as striking an opponent’s face, pulling their hair, or attacking their groin area. Winning Techniques: There are various ways to win a sumo match, including pushing your opponent out of the ring (oshidashi), throwing them down (yorikiri), or forcing them to step out (tsukidashi). Bouts: Each bout typically lasts only a few seconds, but there is no time limit. The winner is declared immediately after one wrestler touches the ground or steps out of bounds. Ranks and Rankings In professional sumo, wrestlers are categorized into different ranks based on their performance. The highest rank is Yokozuna, followed by Ozeki, Sekiwake, Komusubi, and Maegashira. These rankings determine the order of matches and the potential for promotion or demotion. Ring Entering Ceremony Before each match, wrestlers perform a ring entering ceremony called the dohyo-iri. This ritual involves a series of slow and deliberate movements that symbolize purification and respect for the sport. Hakkeyoi! The gyoji’s shout of “Hakkeyoi!” signals the start of the match. This traditional call adds excitement to the bout and encourages the wrestlers to unleash their strength and skill. Sumo Etiquette Sumo wrestling has strict etiquette that both wrestlers must adhere to: Mawashi: Wrestlers wear a belt called a mawashi, which is an essential part of their uniform. It must be worn correctly and tightly secured before entering the ring. Salt Throwing: Before each bout, wrestlers sprinkle salt onto the dohyo as a purifying ritual to ward off evil spirits and ensure a fair competition. Bowing Rituals: Wrestlers bow to each other before and after each match as a sign of respect for their opponent. In Conclusion Sumo wrestling is not only a physical sport but also an art form deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. By understanding its rules and traditions, we can gain a deeper appreciation for this ancient practice. From the ceremonial ring entering to the intense bouts themselves, sumo wrestling showcases strength, technique, and respect. So, the next time you watch a sumo match, pay attention to the intricacies and beauty of this remarkable sport!